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CN → US
HS Code Tariff Rate Origin Destination Doc
3506990000 37.1% CN US Official Doc
3903905000 41.5% CN US Official Doc
3901909000 41.5% CN US Official Doc
3901905501 41.5% CN US Official Doc
3506915000 37.1% CN US Official Doc

AI Analysis

🔩 Foundry Binder Granules (Casting Adhesives)


🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Level Clearance Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: What Are "Foundry Binder Granules"?

Foundry binder granules are specialized chemical materials used in metal casting processes. They act as the "glue" that holds sand grains together to form molds and cores. In international trade, their classification hinges on two critical factors: 1. Chemical Nature: Are they primarily adhesives (bonding agents) or polymers (plastic resins)? 2. Physical Form: Are they in "primary forms" (raw polymers) or "prepared/adhesive preparations"?

⚠️ Key Distinction:
- If the product is marketed specifically as a "bonding agent" or "adhesive" for bonding sand → It falls under Chapter 35 (Albuminoidal substances; modified proteins).
- If the product is marketed as a raw polymer resin (e.g., specific vinyl or styrene polymers) before being mixed into an adhesive formulation → It falls under Chapter 39 (Plastics and articles thereof).


📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (Based on Provided Data)

The following classification applies specifically to "Polymer Casting Binders" as per the provided dataset. Please note that while "Granules" are mentioned in the user input, the provided data explicitly categorizes them based on their chemical substance (Polymer vs. Adhesive) rather than just their physical shape.

HS Code Product Description (Summary) Tax Category Logic Total Tax Rate
3506.99.00.00 Polymer Casting Binder as Adhesive Classified as Adhesives. Material is polymer, but function is consistent with adhesives. 37.1%
3903.90.50.00 Polymer Casting Binder as Styrene Polymer Classified as Styrene Polymers. Form is primary application, no conflict. 41.5%
3901.90.90.00 Polymer Casting Binder as Vinyl Polymer Classified as Vinyl (Ethylene) Polymers. Material and form match. 41.5%
3901.90.55.01 Polymer Casting Binder as Vinyl Copolymer Classified as Vinyl Copolymers. Fits the category of primary polymer forms. 41.5%
3506.91.50.00 Polymer Casting Binder as Other Adhesive Classified as Adhesives. Material is polymer, judged under other items. 37.1%

🔍 Critical Insight:
- The lowest tax rate (37.1%) is achieved by classifying the product under Chapter 35 (Adhesives).
- The highest tax rate (41.5%) occurs when classified under Chapter 39 (Polymers).
- The decision depends entirely on whether customs authorities view the granules as a "finished adhesive preparation" (Ch 35) or a "raw polymer substance" (Ch 39).


💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)

Applicable Country: United States (US)
Origin: China (CN)
Effective Time: Current applicable rates (as per provided data)

🎯 1. 3506.99.00.00 & 3506.91.50.00 —— Classed as Adhesives

Item Content
Base Tariff 2.1% (Ad valorem)
Surtax (Section 301 / 122) +25.0% (Additional tariff)
Section 122 Tariff +10.0% (Specific 122 clause tariff)
Total Tax Rate 37.1%
Tax Calculation CIF Value × 37.1%
De Minimis Exemption Not Applicable (High tariff items generally excluded from de minimis)

📌 Explanation:
- Base 2.1%: Standard MFN duty for adhesives under HS 3506.
- +25.0%: The Section 301 tariff imposed on Chinese imports.
- +10.0%: The "122 Clause" tariff, which applies to specific chemical products from China.
- Total: 37.1%. This is the optimal classification for cost-saving purposes if the product is definitively an adhesive.

🎯 2. 3903.90.50.00 (Styrene), 3901.90.90.00 (Vinyl), 3901.90.55.01 (Vinyl Copolymer) —— Classed as Polymers

Item Content
Base Tariff 6.5% (Ad valorem)
Surtax (Section 301 / 122) +25.0% (Additional tariff)
Section 122 Tariff +10.0% (Specific 122 clause tariff)
Total Tax Rate 41.5%
Tax Calculation CIF Value × 41.5%
De Minimis Exemption Not Applicable

📌 Explanation:
- Base 6.5%: Standard MFN duty for plastics/polymers under HS 3903/3901.
- +25.0% +10.0%: Same additional tariffs as above apply to these polymer chapters.
- Total: 41.5%. This is 4.4% higher than the adhesive classification. Misclassification here can significantly impact profit margins.


🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)

✅ 1. Essential Document Checklist (Non-Negotiable)

Document Required Explanation
Technical Data Sheet (TDS) ✔️ Must specify: Is it an "Adhesive" or a "Polymer Resin"? List chemical composition.
Formula/PCT (Percentage Composition by Weight) ✔️ Critical for determining if it's a "prepared adhesive" (Ch 35) or "pure polymer" (Ch 39).
Product Photos ✔️ Show granule form, packaging, and labeling.
Certificate of Origin (CO) ✔️ To prove Chinese origin and trigger appropriate tariffs.
Commercial Invoice ✔️ Must clearly state the intended use (e.g., "For bonding sand in metal casting").
Safety Data Sheet (SDS) ✔️ For hazmat compliance, especially if chemicals are volatile.

✅ 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Mnemonics)

🔥 "Function Over Form: Adhesive Wins, Polymer Costs More!"

Scenario Correct HS Code Incorrect Practice Consequence
Product is a mixture designed to bind sand 3506.99.00.00 or 3506.91.50.00 Declaring as pure polymer Overpay 4.4% tax (37.1% vs 41.5%)
Product is pure styrene polymer before mixing 3903.90.50.00 Declaring as adhesive Penalty for misclassification
Product is pure vinyl polymer 3901.90.90.00 Declaring as adhesive Penalty for misclassification
Granules are just a physical form of an adhesive 3506.99.00.00 Ignoring chemical nature Customs audit risk

📌 Strategy:
If the granules are a pre-mixed formulation containing additives, curing agents, and polymers specifically for casting, argue for Chapter 35 (Adhesives) to secure the 37.1% rate.
If the granules are pure resin beads (e.g., polystyrene or polyvinyl) to be melted/mixed later, you must use Chapter 39 (41.5%).


✅ 3. Special Cases Handling

Scenario Handling Advice
Is it a "Preparation" or "Raw Material"? Check the TDS. If it has a "ready-to-use" binding property, it's an Adhesive (Ch 35). If it needs further processing/mixing, it might be a Polymer (Ch 39).
Granule Size Granule size does NOT change the HS code. It is determined by chemical composition.
Hazmat Classification Ensure proper UN number and packing group classification are on the bill of lading.
Section 122 Applicability Verify if your specific chemical name is listed in the Section 122 tariff list. The data confirms it applies (+10%).

🌍 V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)

Country/Region Recommended HS Code Tariff Rate Certification Required Notes
🇺🇸 USA 3506.99.00.00 37.1% FDA/Prop 65 (if food contact), EPA Highest Priority: Choose Ch 35 to save 4.4%.
🇨🇳 China 3506.99.00.00 ~5-10% GB Standards No additional 301/122 tariffs.
🇪🇺 EU 3506.91.00 ~6.5% REACH Registration No 301 tariffs, but REACH compliance is strict.
🇮🇳 India 3506.91.00 ~7.5% BIS Certification Check anti-dumping duties on adhesives.

📌 Conclusion:
- The USA is the most critical market due to Section 301 and Section 122 tariffs.
- Classifying as Adhesive (Ch 35) saves 4.4% compared to Polymer (Ch 39).
- In other markets, the difference may be negligible or reversed, but for US exports, 37.1% is the target.


📌 VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)

Error 1: Declaring "Polymer Granules" when it's actually a "Bonding Agent Mixture"
👉 Consequence: Customs may reclassify to 3903... or 3901... and charge 41.5%, plus penalties.
👉 Solution: Provide TDS proving it is a "prepared adhesive."

Error 2: Ignoring the 122 Clause Tariff (+10%)
👉 Consequence: Underpayment of duty.
👉 Solution: Confirm if your chemical name is on the Section 122 list. (Data says YES).

Error 3: Confusing "Granules" with "Primary Form"
👉 Consequence: Even if granular, if it's a mix, it's still an adhesive.
👉 Solution: Don't let "granules" trick you into Ch 39 if the function is adhesive.

Error 4: Missing the Base Duty Difference (2.1% vs 6.5%)
👉 Consequence: Overpaying by 4.4% total.
👉 Solution: Always argue for the lowest duty rate where legally justifiable.

Correct Declaration Example:

"Foundry Sand Binder Granules, Polymeric Composition, Prepared Adhesive for Metal Casting, HS 3506.99.00.00"


🎯 VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Save Money, Clear Fast!

🎯 Remember the Golden Rule:

🔹 "If it Bonds, It's an Adhesive (37.1%). If it's Just Plastic, It's a Polymer (41.5%). Choose Wisely!"
🔹 "Don't let 'Granules' fool you. Look at the Function. Adhesive = Lower Tax."


📌 Pro Tip:
- If you are unsure, request a Binding Ruling from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) before shipping.
- Ensure your Technical Data Sheet explicitly states "Adhesive" or "Bonding Agent" as the primary function.


📣 Immediate Action:

📞 Contact your customs broker + Provide TDS + Declare as HS 3506.99.00.00 (if applicable)
🚀 Save 4.4% on every shipment. Clear customs smoothly. Maximize profit!


Professional customs clearance starts with precise classification!
💼 Every percentage point of tax matters!

Customer Reviews

About HS Code Classification

The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.

Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:

  • Chapter (2 digits) — Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
  • Heading (4 digits) — More specific grouping within the chapter
  • Subheading (6 digits) — Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
  • National subdivisions (8-10 digits) — Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes

Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.

When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:

  • Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate — The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
  • General rate — Applied to countries without trade agreements
  • Trade remedy duties — Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties

The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.